Cracker Barrel Meatloaf

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Are you craving the comforting taste of Cracker Barrel’s famous meatloaf? Now you can enjoy that same delicious flavor right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe. Packed with juicy ground beef, diced tomatoes, and a flavorful topping, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes with onion and green pepper, drained
  • ½ green bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard

Directions:

  1. Oven Method:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, drained tomatoes, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beaten eggs, milk, and black pepper. Fold in the crushed crackers.
    • Press the meatloaf mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
    • In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and mustard to create the topping. Spread this mixture over the partially baked meatloaf.
    • Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
    • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
  2. Air Fryer Method:
    • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Spray 2 mini loaf pans with cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, drained tomatoes, green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beaten eggs, milk, and black pepper. Fold in the crushed crackers.
    • Divide the meatloaf mixture evenly between the prepared mini loaf pans. Place them in the air fryer basket.
    • Air fry for 30 minutes.
    • In a separate bowl, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and mustard to create the topping. Spread this mixture over the partially cooked meatloaf.
    • Return the mini loaf pans to the air fryer and continue to air fry for an additional 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
    • Remove from the air fryer and let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes (oven) / 37 minutes (air fryer)

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (oven) / 42 minutes (air fryer)

Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

  • Serving Suggestions: Slice the meatloaf and serve it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Storage: Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
  • Freezing: You can also freeze leftover meatloaf for longer storage. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations:

  1. Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef for a leaner option.
  2. Vegetarian Meatloaf: Use cooked lentils, quinoa, or a combination of beans and vegetables as a meat substitute.
  3. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded cheese or cheese slices in the middle of the meatloaf for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
  4. BBQ Glazed Meatloaf: Brush the meatloaf with your favorite barbecue sauce before baking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
  5. Italian Meatloaf: Add Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture for an Italian-inspired twist.
  6. Mushroom Gravy: Serve the meatloaf with a creamy mushroom gravy instead of the traditional ketchup topping.
  7. Spicy Meatloaf: Mix chopped jalapeños or chipotle peppers into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
  8. Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice leftover meatloaf and serve it between two slices of bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a tasty sandwich.
  9. Meatloaf Meatballs: Roll the meatloaf mixture into balls and bake them in the oven until cooked through. Serve as appetizers with dipping sauce.
  10. Greek-Inspired Meatloaf: Add feta cheese, spinach, and Greek seasoning to the meat mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
  11. Tex-Mex Meatloaf: Incorporate diced green chilies, corn kernels, and taco seasoning into the meat mixture. Top the meatloaf with salsa and shredded cheese before baking for a Southwestern twist.
  12. Honey Glazed Meatloaf: Brush the meatloaf with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
  13. Mediterranean Meatloaf: Mix in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese into the meat mixture. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean flair.
  14. Asian-Inspired Meatloaf: Add minced ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to the meat mixture. Top with a sesame-ginger glaze made with soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
  15. Buffalo Chicken Meatloaf: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef and mix in buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, and diced celery into the meat mixture. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
  16. French Onion Meatloaf: Mix in caramelized onions, Gruyere cheese, and fresh thyme into the meat mixture. Top the meatloaf with additional caramelized onions and a sprinkle of cheese before baking for a rich and savory flavor.
  17. Caprese Meatloaf: Layer slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and tomato slices in the middle of the meatloaf before baking. Top with chopped basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
    • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be leaner, so the meatloaf may be slightly less moist.
  2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular breadcrumbs or crackers in the meatloaf mixture.
  3. How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?
    • The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F when fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  4. Can I make mini meatloaves instead of one large loaf?
    • Absolutely! You can divide the meatloaf mixture into individual portions and shape them into mini loaves or muffin tin-sized portions for individual servings.
  5. Can I use different vegetables in the meatloaf?
    • Yes, feel free to customize the vegetable mixture based on your preferences. Finely chopped onions, bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms all work well in meatloaf.
  6. What can I use instead of ketchup for the topping?
    • If you’re not a fan of ketchup, you can use barbecue sauce, marinara sauce, or a mixture of tomato sauce and brown sugar for the topping.
  7. Can I make the meatloaf ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just remember to add the topping before baking.
  8. How do I prevent the meatloaf from being too dry?
    • Adding milk and eggs to the meat mixture helps keep the meatloaf moist. You can also avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can lead to a denser texture.
  9. Can I freeze the meatloaf before baking?
    • Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf and freeze it before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the recipe instructions.
  10. What sides go well with meatloaf?
    • Meatloaf pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, macaroni and cheese, or a simple side salad.

Now, you can enjoy the homely taste of Cracker Barrel’s meatloaf anytime you want, with this simple and flavorful recipe.

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